The Metis of the Northwest Territories asserted that they had the same land rights as the Metis from Manitoba. Angered by government inaction in recognizing these rights, various members of the Southern Branch (Metis communities along the South Saskatchewan River between Prairie Ronde (Dundurn) and Prince Albert) met at Abraham Montour’s house on March 24, 1884 to discuss their plan of action to obtain government recognition of their rights. After years of petitioning the government to receive recognition of their rights they sought a new, more dramatic plan of action. A quote from prominent Metis leader Gabriel Dumont outlines the perceived need for action: “We’ll never get anything from them [the government], until we take matters into our own hands and force the government to give us justice.” In implementing this plan, the Metis petitioned Louis Riel to lead their movement. Moving towards protest and resistance French Metis began attempting to form a coalition with the Anglo-Metis in the Batoche area.
Summary
Implications
Undoubtedly, organization by the Metis lead to the arrival of militia sent by the Canadian Government during the Northwest Resistance. In the Metis' request for justice the Canadian Government responded by refusing to negotiate with them and an oppressive and violent front moved westward which would cause the the clash at the Battle of Batoche, and the arrest and trial of Indigenous leaders involved in the resistance.
Sub Event
Regarding Plan to Force Recognition of Rights by Government
Date
1884-03-24
Community